This writing project explores major concepts in Christian theology and formation through an engagement with contemporary American literature.

In the poetry of Li-Young Lee, Cathy Smith Bowers, Tracy K. Smith, and Christian Wiman, and the prose fiction of James Baldwin, Marilynne Robinson, Phil Klay, and Kali Fajardo-Anstine, we find compelling representations of the characteristics of Christian life described in the New Testament verse Galatians 5:22—love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, generosity, faithfulness, and gentleness.

The project is also animated by philosophical discussions of civic virtue stretching back to Plato’s Republic. In landmark speeches from across American history, by major figures from Abraham Lincoln to Eleanor Roosevelt to Martin Luther King, Jr., we find insights into how these virtues—courage, wisdom, and justice—lay the foundation for each of us to participate fully in the public life of our nation.

One final characteristic appears in both texts as a defining virtue: self-control.

In monthly posts, beginning in the fall of 2025, I’ll explore each of these concepts in turn, concluding with a reflection on the 250th anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence in July of 2026.

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The name of the project is inspired by the contemplative poetry of the Puritan minister Edward Taylor, who wrote over 200 poetic meditations in preparation for the communion service at his church in Westfield, Massachusetts, the community to which he quietly devoted his entire life and career.